David Oliver Springer

He was born in Imperial, Saskatchewan in 1926. After completing high school he moved to Winnipeg where he met and married Frances Gething, his wife of 65 years. He was predeceased by Franny in 2014 and leaves behind daughter Barb (Ray), sons Kenn (Martine) and David, as well as three grandchildren, Renée, Adrien and Nicholas, and great-grandson Remy. He is also survived by sister Isobel Clee in Ontario, along with many nieces and nephews. He began his career in the tire business in Winnipeg working as a salesperson for the Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company and later purchased his own successful tire shop in Virden, Manitoba with a branch in Birtle Manitoba. He retired from his business when he was only 49 years old and enjoyed an active retirement for the next 45 years, spending many winters in Mesa, Arizona and summers at the family cabin at Oak Lake Beach near Virden, Manitoba before heading for the West Coast.

Dave and Franny moved from the Prairies to Vancouver Island in 1981. They were early investors in Arbutus Ridge, and were considered “Pioneers”; buying one of the first lots and living there for 24 years before moving to Victoria to be closer to family in 2012. He became an avid golfer having a house right on the golf course and was a founder of the woodworking shop at the Ridge, creating many pieces of work that continue to be appreciated by family and friends. He was a true family man, and was ready to give advice when asked, but otherwise minding his own business. He happily helped out in any of the projects his family was doing, turning the work into a lot of fun. He thoroughly enjoyed his 3 grandchildren and was truly interested in whatever they were up to.

Community Service was important to him. While living in Virden he was President of the Lion’s Club, Director of the Chamber of Commerce, Master of Mason’s, Shriners, Town Councillor and served on numerous other community boards and associations. It’s a long list. He was also very active politically, especially at campaign time.

We want to thank the entire staff at The Heights at Mount View for the tremendous loving care and support they provided Dad during the time he lived there. They treated all of us like family for almost 5 years and we truly appreciate everything they did for us.

His life will be celebrated by family in a private gathering. In lieu of flowers the family would be pleased if you would make a donation to the Alzheimer’s Society of BC in recognition of the wonderful support they offered to our family and those who have loved ones affected by Alzheimer’s Disease. Donations can made online at https://alzheimer.ca/en/bc or by calling 1-800-667-3742